Prophet Muhammad was born in Makkah in the year of the Elephant. His father died before he was born, and after he was born, Haleemah al-Sa’diyyah nursed him. When he was six years old, he visited his maternal uncles in Madinah with his mother, Aminah bint Wahb. On the way back to Makkah, his mother died in al-Abwa.
Crash Course: Who is Prophet Muhammad ﷺ?
(Based on Qur’an, Sunnah, and classical Seerah works)
Bottom Line
Muhammad ﷺ is the final Messenger of Allah, sent as a mercy to all humanity to restore pure monotheism and guide people with the Qur’an.
Quick Answer
Prophet Muhammad ﷺ was born in Makkah in 570 CE into the respected Quraysh tribe. Known as Al-Amin for his trustworthiness, he received revelation at age 40, calling people to worship Allah alone. His mission transformed Arabia’s fractured society into a united community of faith, and his legacy continues through the Qur’an and Sunnah.
Key Takeaways
- He is the Seal of the Prophets, sent to all of mankind Qur’an 33:40
- His mission restored truth, justice, and guidance through the Qur’an and Sunnah.
Detailed Answer
1. Historical Context
Before Islam, Arabia was marked by tribal conflict, idol worship, and social injustice. While generosity and loyalty existed, practices like burying daughters alive, exploiting the poor, and worshiping idols were widespread. Religions of Jews and Christians were present, but distorted from their original teachings.
2. Early Life
Born in the Year of the Elephant (570 CE), Muhammad ﷺ was orphaned young and raised by his grandfather ʿAbd al-Muttalib, then his uncle Abu Talib. He grew up known for honesty, earning the title *Al-Amin* (the Trustworthy). As a young man, he worked as a shepherd and later a merchant, gaining respect for his fairness in trade. At 25, he married Khadijah, a noble merchant widow.
3. Revelation and Prophethood
At age 40, in the Cave of Hira, the angel Jibreel revealed the first verses Qur’an 96:1-3. He began calling his family and close friends, with Khadijah, Abu Bakr, Ali, and Zayd among the first believers. Quraysh resisted his message fiercely.
4. The Makkan Period
Muslims faced persecution, leading some to migrate to Abyssinia. The Prophet ﷺ endured the loss of his wife Khadijah and his uncle Abu Talib in the “Year of Sorrow.” During this time, he was honored with the miraculous Isra’ and Mi’raj (Night Journey and Ascension), where he received the command of five daily prayers.
5. The Hijrah to Madinah
As persecution intensified, Muslims pledged allegiance at Aqabah, inviting the Prophet ﷺ to Madinah. His migration (Hijrah) in 622 CE marked the start of the Islamic calendar. In Madinah, he established the first Muslim community, building bonds between Muhajirun and Ansar.
6. The Madinan Period
The Prophet ﷺ established the Constitution of Madinah, ensuring cooperation among Muslims, Jews, and others. Major battles defined this era: Badr (victory), Uhud (a setback), and Khandaq (defense). The Treaty of Hudaybiyah later secured peace and allowed Islam to spread rapidly.
7. Final Years
In 8 AH, the Prophet ﷺ returned to Makkah with a great army and conquered it peacefully, cleansing the Kaʿbah of idols. In 10 AH, he delivered his Farewell Sermon during his only Hajj, affirming equality, justice, and the sanctity of life and property. Shortly after, in 11 AH, he passed away in Madinah at the age of 63.
8. His Character and Legacy
The Prophet ﷺ embodied mercy, justice, humility, and patience. He was a devoted father, caring husband, wise leader, and teacher of faith. His greatest legacy is the Qur’an and his Sunnah, a roadmap for all Muslims until the Day of Judgment. Allah Himself praised him:
“Indeed, you are upon an exalted standard of character.”
What This Means for You
To know Muhammad ﷺ is to know Islam. His life shows how to live with faith, dignity, and service to others. Following his Sunnah is the key to guidance, and his message is universal for every time and place.
And Allah knows best.
References
Primary Sources
Qur’an
- Surah Al-Ahzab 33:40: Muhammad ﷺ is the Seal of the Prophets.
- Surah Saba 34:28: Sent as a messenger to all mankind.
- Surah Al-‘Alaq 96:1–3: The first revelation in Cave Hira.
- Surah Al-Qalam 68:4: Praised for his exalted character.
Hadith
- Sahih Muslim 523: The Prophet’s unique qualities over other Prophets.
Secondary Sources
- Ibn Hisham, Sirah: Early biography detailing the Prophet’s ﷺ life and mission.
- Ibn Kathir, al-Bidayah wa’l-Nihayah: Classical history covering Islam’s beginnings and prophetic events.
- Al-Nawawi, Sharh Sahih Muslim: Commentary on hadith explaining rulings and virtues of the Prophet ﷺ.
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